Last update: 17 August, 2002
These are mainly small to very small orchids, and the few species that I have seen seem to produce their flowers sitting on the leaves. They may be on the upper or lower surfaces. Although the flowers are very small, they are nevertheless quite beautiful.
These plants are epiphytes, and grow attached to twigs and branches of rainforest trees. Although having a reputation of being somewhat delicate, they can be successfully grown in pots so long as the medium is very open and well-draining. The species shown above is Lepanthes samacensis. A small plant, its leaves grow out at an angle away from the substrate. The flowers are produced typically on the upper surfaces of the leaves. I grow this plant as an epiphyte on a piece of tree branch, and so far it has produced a never-ending supply of tiny red flowers. The flowers of L. samacensis are shown in close-up to the right. Their vivid red colouring do attract the eye in spite of their very small size. |
This
plant is, indeed, something special. Very recently discovered
by William Chacon from San Vito, Costa Rica, it is a fascinating little
plant. It is an epiphyte, although William is growing it in a pot
containing Sphagnum moss. He has named it Lepanthes
mariposae, which reflects the shape of the flower. 'Mariposa'
is Spanish for 'Butterfly'.
Although the flower is small, it is in the form of a perfect little orange and yellow butterfly. I was astounded when I first saw this plant, and I will be very disappointed if I return to England without a specimen! I feel very privileged to have been shown this very new and beautiful plant.
As with all epiphytic orchids, Lepanthes spp. cannot
tolerate wet feet, and will not do well if continually soaked in water.
They need, therefore, to be placed where they can benefit from both humidity and
air movement - a combination not easy to achieve in the confines of a closed
vivarium. They are, however, well worth a try.
